{"id":1612,"date":"2023-09-24T08:40:00","date_gmt":"2023-09-24T08:40:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/carreras-medical-center\/?p=1612"},"modified":"2023-10-24T08:48:09","modified_gmt":"2023-10-24T08:48:09","slug":"what-happens-at-an-annual-physical","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/carreras-medical-center\/what-happens-at-an-annual-physical\/","title":{"rendered":"What Happens At An Annual Physical"},"content":{"rendered":"

Going to the doctor is often associated with feeling unwell or addressing specific health concerns. However, scheduling routine visits with your primary care provider, even when you’re feeling excellent, can offer various long-term benefits. Think of your primary care provider as a partner in maintaining your overall health.<\/span><\/p>\n

Regular physical exams serve as wellness checks, allowing you to connect with your doctor, discuss any health issues, and explore preventive measures for the future. As such, in this article, the expert team of <\/span>internal medicine<\/span><\/a> at <\/span>Carreras Medical Center<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Addressing Your Health Questions and Concerns<\/b><\/h2>\n

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Your annual physical is the perfect occasion to raise any lingering health questions or concerns that don’t warrant separate appointments. It’s a chance to discuss things that have been on your mind, whether they’re persistent health issues or topics you’ve come across in your reading and would like your doctor’s opinion on.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Role of Your Primary Care Provider<\/b><\/h2>\n

Your primary care provider could be a physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner, all trained to identify and manage various health issues, including chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease. These conditions are among the most significant health threats globally and often develop without apparent symptoms.<\/span><\/p>\n

Regardless of your age and current health status, it’s essential to establish a relationship with a primary care provider. This ensures that someone familiar with your history is available when health issues arise. Even if you’re young and healthy, building a rapport with a provider is vital for future healthcare needs.<\/span><\/p>\n

Frequency of Routine Physicals<\/b><\/h2>\n

The frequency of routine physical exams can vary depending on factors such as your age, individual health history, risks, and specific needs. There’s no one-size-fits-all rule for how often you should see your primary care provider when you’re in good health. The optimal schedule is something you and your provider can determine together.<\/span><\/p>\n

For individuals in their 20s and 30s who are healthy, visiting a provider every two years may suffice. Beyond that age bracket, making these checkups an annual habit is recommended. Getting a yearly physical is especially crucial for individuals aged 40 and older.<\/span><\/p>\n

What Happens At a Physical?<\/b><\/h2>\n

Your annual checkup typically consists of two main components: discussing your recent health history, changes, or concerns, and a physical examination.<\/span><\/p>\n

Health History Review<\/b><\/h3>\n

Use this opportunity to inform your provider about any changes in your family health history or concerns. It’s also a good time to mention changes in your menstrual cycle, if applicable, or to discuss your exercise routine, smoking habits, and alcohol consumption.<\/span><\/p>\n

Physical Exam<\/b><\/h3>\n

During the physical exam, your provider will assess various aspects of your health through observation and examination. This includes:<\/span><\/p>\n